Gum Disease Treatment – Crown Point, IN
Eliminate Infections to Achieve Healthy Gums
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease is a sinister threat that can start out imperceptibly small, but it can cause serious and permanent damage such as tooth loss, gum recession, and jawbone erosion if left untreated. While the early stage of gum disease called gingivitis can usually be reversed with proper oral hygiene, the advanced stage of periodontitis requires the intervention of a qualified dental professional to be resolved. Here’s a brief guide to gum disease and how Dr. Ornelas can address it.
Why Choose Ornelas Family Dentistry for Gum Disease Treatment?
- Skilled and Compassionate Dental Team
- Prevent Tooth Loss and Other Oral Maladies
- In-House Savings Plan Available
What is Gum Disease?
According to a recent CDC report, more than 47% of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease, and the percentage grows to 70.1% for seniors. This issue is more common in men than women, those living below the federal poverty level, those without a high school diploma, and current smokers. Other factors that can increase one’s risk of gum disease are genetics, pregnancy, medications that cause dry mouth, and immune-compromising health conditions such as diabetes.
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is caused by a bacterial infection affecting the gums and jawbones that support the teeth. Gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums, is the earliest stage of gum disease, and periodontitis is its advanced and more serious form. While gingivitis can usually be addressed with improved oral hygiene, periodontitis must be managed with regular treatments from a dentist to prevent permanent damage like tooth loss.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease can show itself through a variety of symptoms depending on how far the infection has progressed. Symptoms of gingivitis include persistent bad breath (halitosis), red, dark red, or swollen gums, the gums bleeding when flossed or brushed, tenderness, and gum recession. Periodontitis, on the other hand, can cause symptoms like pain while chewing, permanent teeth coming loose, dental sensitivity, changes to the bite or the way restorations like partial dentures fit, and tooth loss.
How Do We Treat Gum Disease?
Dr. Ornelas will thoroughly examine your mouth to determine the severity of your gum infection before determining which treatment is best for you. Based on his findings, he may recommend one of the following options.
Antibiotic Treatment
Dr. Ornelas may prescribe antibiotic pills to kill large amounts of the harmful oral bacteria that cause gum disease. This can be in addition to scaling and root planing treatments, and it can help prevent symptoms from getting worse.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a two-part gum disease treatment in Crown Point that essentially amounts to a deep cleaning of the mouth. The treatment begins with our team removing all plaque and tartar from the teeth to reduce bacterial populations, and we will go as far down as the pockets of the gums in cases of gum recession. Afterward, we will smooth out the roots of the teeth to reduce bacterial adhesion and make it easier for the gum tissue to reattach.
Do I Need Scaling & Root Planing?
Some cases of gum disease can be addressed with thorough at-home oral hygiene, but others need more extensive care, including scaling and root planing. Visit us for a gum health evaluation if you are experiencing:
- Red, swollen, bleeding gums
- Gum recession
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth
After Dr. Ornelas and our team examine your gums, we can design a custom plan to manage the infection and help your oral health get back on track.
The Process of Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a two-part process:
- Scaling: We use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar (the hardened form of plaque) from both above and below the gumline.
- Root planing: We smooth out the tooth roots so it is more difficult for bacteria to stick to them. This also helps the gums reattach.
We administer local anesthesia so you remain comfortable throughout the treatment.
Scaling and root planing usually takes two appointments (we do one half of the mouth at a time), but sometimes, we only do one quadrant of the mouth per visit.
Aftercare Tips for Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing is a rather intense process, and it may take a few weeks for your gums to feel normal afterward. Here are some tips for your recovery:
- Eat a soft, mild diet — things like yogurt, applesauce, smoothies, and even ice cream can be good choices
- Be gentle when you brush and floss
- Rinse your gums periodically with warm salt water
- Get plenty of rest
- Call us if you have any questions or concerns